Cartagena Old City Walking Tour

Cartagena is a UNESCO World heritage site and a living breathing city that has been remarkably well preserve. Departing from the pier side and accompanied by expert local guides your first stop will be a panoramic view of the imposing military fort of San Felipe de Barajas, which is situated outside the walled city. This immense building is considered to be the most outstanding feat of Spanish military engineering in the New World with its construction beginning in 1536 and lasting for 121 years.

You will then continue to the historic colonial city. The immense walls took 194 years to be completed and enabled Cartagena to defend itself from the numerous attacks of English pirates and other would be invaders. The Spanish colonial architecture is some of the most impressive and best preserved in South America with its imposing merchant’s houses, narrow streets, flower bedecked balconies stunning civic buildings and beautiful churches. The city is dotted with many squares and public spaces which are now are home to sidewalk café’s and restaurants where Colombians and visitors alike relax and enjoy the magic of this amazing city.

You will continue to Bocagrande, which in complete contrast with the old city, is modern with high rise apartment complexes, hotels and restaurants, and is where many Colombians take their vacations. A brief stop for a shopping at the Pierino Gallo shopping center famous for its wide variety of jewelry shop with the world renowned Colombian Emerald before returning to the pier.